Elstow on the map
Location in BedfordshireElstow sits where the marker shows within the county.
About Elstow
Elstow is a village located in Bedfordshire, England, within the MK42 postcode area. It is situated approximately two miles south of Bedford, making it easily accessible for those travelling to and from the town. The village features a mix of residential homes and local amenities, providing a sense of community for its residents.
One of the notable landmarks in Elstow is the 12th-century Elstow Abbey, which attracts visitors interested in historical architecture. The village also has a few small shops and a primary school, serving the local population. Elstow's surrounding countryside offers opportunities for walking and enjoying the outdoors, making it a pleasant place for both residents and visitors.
School Ratings in Elstow
Elstow is served by 76 schools. Cherry Trees Nursery School, Peter Pan Nursery School and Bedford Free School are each rated Outstanding by Ofsted. A further 14 schools hold a Good rating.
House Prices in Elstow
Property prices average £326K across the area, and semi-detached homes are the most common property type, typically selling for £289K.
Crime and Anti-Social Behaviour in Elstow
Local crime rates sit higher than national averages. Shoplifting accounts for the highest share in Elstow, with 150 incidents logged in May 2026.
Deprivation and Employment in Elstow
Based on the 2025 Index of Multiple Deprivation, Elstow falls within the mid-range nationally for overall deprivation. Working-age employment is around the national average for the area. Income levels locally sit close to the national average.
Healthcare in Elstow
There are 30 GP surgeries within three miles of Elstow, the nearest being Huc B&l Iuc Service (1.1 miles away).
Local Data for Elstow
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Property Prices 7,531 sales
Schools & Education 12 nearby View all schools
Ofsted ratings for schools in the MK42 postcode area.
Household Income in Elstow ONS 2023
The average total household income in Elstow is approximately £56,748 a year before tax, 3% above the national average of £55,302. After tax and benefits, the average disposable (net) household income is around £42,543. These are modelled estimates from the Office for National Statistics for the financial year ending 2023.
Net (after tax) household income averages £42,543.
Businesses in Elstow ONS 2025
There are approximately 1,733 active businesses based in Elstow, around 31 for every 1,000 residents. The local economy is dominated by small firms: about 87% are micro-businesses employing fewer than 10 people, while 53 are larger employers with 50 or more staff. Figures are from the Office for National Statistics UK Business Counts.
Deprivation and Employment in Elstow IMD 2025
The 2025 Index of Multiple Deprivation places Elstow in the mid-range nationally. Employment and income levels are close to the England average, with a mix of opportunities across sectors. Overall living conditions are comparable to similar areas across the country.
Crime in Elstow 993 crimes · May 2026
Reported crime in Elstow is above the national average when measured per capita. Violence & sexual offences dominates the figures, a trend mirrored in many urban centres. Local policing teams work actively in the area, and community initiatives continue to address key concerns.
Crime figures depend on reporting by individual police forces and may not reflect the full picture in all areas.
Nearest Train Stations 6 stations
Location
Nearby Towns & Villages 12 found
Local Government
Home Ownership in Elstow
Of the 22,030 households in and around Elstow, 59% are owned, 22% are socially rented and 20% are privately rented. Home ownership here is lower than the England and Wales average of 63%.
Tenure from the 2021 Census (ONS), for the postcode districts covering Elstow.